WILMER JOEL
Marshall Islands High School (MIHS) 56th commencement exercise will go down as the largest graduation of this school year. A total of 169 graduates from sections 12A to 12G successfully completed four school years at MIHS.
The graduation venue was flooded with many parents, families, and friends who witnessed this momentous occasion. Joining the commencement exercise were Ministers Bruce Bilimon and Sandy Alfred, Ambassador of Japan Norio Saito, Rev. Palukne Johnny, PSS Commissioner Kanchi Hosia, Associate Commissioner Junior Paul, Rita Councilman Ronnie Lakabung, and MIHS alumni and keynote speaker Jikit Rufus.
MIHS Principals Barbara Ned, Kathy Digno, and Marty Mark were, of course, participating and emceeing the program was MIHS alumni and freshman teacher Jasmine Meiuha.
After a few years of female domination for the positions of valedictorian and salutatorian, this year was a turning point for males at MIHS. Taking the position of valedictorian is Ressmer Tallur and the salutatorian post has gone to Barber John. In John’s Salutary address he said, “We will go out into the world to use the gifts and abilities we have been blessed (with) to denounce wrong doings and to promote well being and joy to our RMI people.”
Following his address Tallur delivered his valedictory remarks, stating “We are the next generation of the Marshall Islands, we are the next roots of our families, and we do our best not only for ourselves but also for the community, families, and future generations to come.”
Diplomas and awards were handed to the graduates followed by awards from government and non-governmental agencies to the valedictorian and salutatorian and the students who completed practicum in their respective departments.
Following the conclusion of the program a striking dance performance from the class of 2021 made the occasion more exciting to the spectators. Then everyone went to the school’s field to congratulate and put leis on the graduates.